seanpatrick76

Hey all,


Hey all, there's a nice vintage Bianchi SX in "excellent" condition here for sale. I really dig the paint job, and have been jonesing for a Bianchi for a while, I'm wondering if it's worth the 325 CAD that's being asked for it? The frame looks to be in good shape, but it's hard to tell from the pictures about the drivetrain. The front brake looks a little rusty, but other than that it looks pretty good (and should fit me). Opinions?

bianchi road bike EXCELLENT SHAPE | road | City of Toronto | Kijiji

Bianchigirll 

In the US that would be an Orchid '86 with Shipmano Light Action derailleurs and Dia Compe brakes.

The price may be a bit steep but you are in a hot market. That frame is the same as the one on my '87 Sport SX which was a great rider.

seanpatrick76

Thanks for the info BianchiGirl. Ill offer 250 and see where it goes

Binky

Check out this Bianchi ad at your peril.
Look at the Sellers other ads at your peril.

The spelling and grammar are atrocious and absolutely atypical of the BFSO community (Bike Flippers of Southern Ontario).

"Shamino compents" indeed !

Binky

seanpatrick76

Hey Binky,

I didn't realize until you mentioned it that this guy had other bikes for sale, though you're right his grammar did put me off a bit. I managed to talk him down to 275 for the bike, which he assures me is "mint" - or as mint as a 29 year old bike can be. Do you think I should stay away?

FWIW $275 for a Bianchi with a frame in good shape seems quite reasonable compared to some other bikes I've seen for sale around here. Grammar and spelling aside, if it is indeed in good shape I think It will be worth it.

Binky

If you have read some of my other replies to 'What Is It Worth" queries, you will know that I think the bike you are looking at is a bargain.

Location, location, location.
If you live in Toronto, where the TTC (transit) pass costs $141 per month, a bike that lasts even one year is an investment that can put hundreds of dollars back into in your pocket. And, with a modicum of care, these old steel bikes were built to last for many decades.

Binky

FastJake

Seller is an idiot, but judge the bike rather than the seller. You only have to deal with the seller once but you get to keep the bike as long as you like.

That said, it does look to be in quite nice condition. Price would be high around here but maybe $275 is in the ballpark by you. I also love the color. I'd go for it.

Binky

I think you are right on ALL points.

Binky

PaintItCeleste

Yeah it definitely doesn't look "mint" to me, even from the photos. But "mint" is quite an over-used term. The frame still looks sharp and I love pantographed details. That price isn't unreasonable generally speaking, but is higher. Though as mentioned above, location is a major factor. I'd probably buy it, even here in STL for that. Rad color.

seanpatrick76

Fair enough. I'm going to go check it out. This is $275 CAD so $220 USD all together (for what it's worth). If the BB and frame checks out, and the seat-post isn't corroded shut, I'll probably pick it up. I do love the colour.

Here's hoping for the best

seanpatrick76

Well Unfortunately the bike didn't fit quite right. The frame really was in excellent shape, amd the gears worked well - but the tires were obviously an addition the guy made himself (one was out of true, and they were different types). It was very close, and I almost regret not buying it - but It just didn't feel quite right. Someone is going to get a beautiful Bianchi though thats for sure.

I'll continue to keep my eyes open.

ThermionicScott 

That's how it goes. If you're able to true your own wheels, wobbly ones could be a way to negotiate on price. Araya 20As are great rims, BTW -- not the lightest or most aero, but very durable.

I love my black Sport SX, but I would gladly hop on a fuchsia one, too.